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Two local teams recognized recently for their good sportsmanship

Submitted • The Oakdale Athletic Association Traveling Girls fastpitch softball 10U and 12U teams were recognized June 25 for showing good sportsmanship during a recent tournament.

The Oakdale Athletic Association Traveling Girls fastpitch softball 10U and 12U teams were both recognized recently for their good sportsmanship. The teams received a Youth 1st Team Award on June 25 for their outstanding sportsmanship during the 2018 Lakeville Classic Tournament. The teams also were recognized at a Minnesota Twins game.

The Youth 1st Team Award recognizes positive behavior from players, coaches and everyone associated with the team such as parents, fans and spectators.

“We are placing the emphasis on how you play the game, which is ultimately more important than if you win or lose.” said Mark Arjes, Founder/Director of Youth 1st. “It has become increasingly difficult to find and retain coaches and officials for youth sports because of the abuse that they take during games. We believe it is time to model and encourage values-based actions, creating what we call a ‘Conduct 1st environment’ where the focus is on the kids, competitive energies are kept in check and officials and opponents are respected.”